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Pires replaces Tony Adams for Kenya visit

Former France and Arsenal legendary midfielder, Robert Pires. PHOTO/courtesy

NAIROBI, November 12 – Former Arsenal and France legendary midfielder Robert Pires has confirmed his visit to Kenya where four lucky families will host him in December.

Pires who was in the Gunner’s famous ‘invincible’ squad that won the Barclays Premier League unbeaten in 2003-04 season, replaced former club-mate and captain Tony Adams who fell ill.

During his two day visit (December 4-6), Pires will be joining 100 lucky Barclays’ customers winners in the in the ‘Switch to Better’ promotion, for an exclusive Premier League Fan Zone viewing experience.

He will also spend time with four lucky winners and their families and kit them out in the original regalia of their favourite English Premier League team.

“The Barclays Premier League is without a doubt the biggest and the best league in world football. I’m still an avid supporter and I cannot wait to join Barclays in Kenya to share these unique experiences with them,” Pires who made his maiden appearance for Arsenal in 2000, announced.

Pires’ six year career at Arsenal saw him lift three FA Cup titles and two Premier League titles in 2001-02 and 2003-04 seasons, scoring 84 goals in 284 appearances.

His tactical footwork and exquisite scoring made him one of the most revered Arsenal players of his time, alongside Thierry Henry and Ashley Cole who together were nicknamed “the invincibles”.

Pires moved to Villarreal after Arsenal and retired in 2011 after briefly playing with Aston Villa.

Despite being 42, Pires still played with FC Goa in India in the 2014/2015 season.

In order to participate, entrants need to open a Barclays account and transfer their salary into this account each month with customers who register for online banking standing a chance of winning two tickets to a VIP Premier League Fan Zone with the football the legend.

“At Barclays we take pride in connecting our customers on the African continent through their shared passion for the beautiful game. We are the only bank in Africa able to reward its customers with once in a lifetime experiences through our longstanding sponsorship of the EPL.

“We cannot wait to welcome Robert Pires to Kenya to share in our passion for football and to experience our African hospitality,” Director of Consumer Banking, Barclays Bank of Kenya, Zahid Mustafa stated.

Pires will join Barclays Bank of Kenya in the launch of the Spaces for Sports Initiative, a Ksh. 47m partnership with the International Youth Foundation envisioned to empower the next generation using their sporting talent.

The program, which will be implemented through Mathare Youth Sports Association will provide the youth with skills, confidence and the experience they need to secure social independence.

Customers have until November 20 to participate in the ‘Switch to Better’ promotion.